Pawnee Buttes

The Pawnee Buttes are two dramatic rock formations rising 300 feet above the surrounding prairie in Pawnee National Grassland. The twin buttes are remnants of ancient geological formations, left standing as the softer surrounding rock eroded away over millions of years.

The hike to the buttes is straightforward - flat terrain with big sky views. What makes it memorable is the otherworldly landscape and the sense of isolation on the open prairie.

The Trail

The trail starts from a small parking area and heads across open grassland toward the buttes, visible from the trailhead. The path is generally clear but not always well-marked - the buttes serve as your navigation point.

Distance: About 1.5 miles each way to the base of the east butte. The trail is flat with minimal elevation change.

Surface: Dirt path, sometimes sandy. Can be muddy after rain.

Shade: None. Zero shade on the entire trail. Plan accordingly.

The Buttes

Two buttes stand about half a mile apart. The east butte is the main destination - larger and more dramatic. Both are composed of sedimentary rock with visible layers representing millions of years of geological history.

The area is rich in fossils, though collecting is prohibited. Scientists have found prehistoric mammal fossils here, including ancient horses and camels from when this area was very different.

Wildlife

The buttes provide nesting habitat for raptors, including:

• Prairie Falcons
• Golden Eagles
• Ferruginous Hawks

During nesting season (March 1 - June 30), access near the buttes may be restricted to protect nesting birds. Check current conditions before visiting in spring.

Tips for the Hike

Water: Bring more than you think. There's no shade and no water sources. On hot days, you'll drink a lot.

Sun protection: Essential. Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. The exposed prairie offers no relief from sun.

Timing: Early morning or late afternoon is best. Avoid midday in summer - it's brutally hot and shadeless.

Weather: Check forecasts. Thunderstorms roll across the prairie quickly, and there's no shelter. Lightning on open prairie is dangerous.

Rattlesnakes: Present in warm months. Watch where you step, especially near rocks.

Getting There

From Greeley, drive northeast on Highway 85 toward Ault. Continue through Ault and head east on Weld County Road 390. Follow signs to Pawnee Buttes - the last miles are on gravel roads.

The drive takes about 1.5 hours from Greeley, 2+ hours from Denver. Fill your gas tank before leaving town - there are no services near the trailhead.